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Chronology

The organ has undergone many changes, in terms of repairs and replacement, as well as its location and use. By 1452 the original College Chapel was furnished with two modest organs, one ‘great’ and one small. Until the mid-16th century their purpose was not to accompany the choir so much as to respond in solo to the Choir. Now it is a central part of the College's liturgical and musical life.

29 Sep 1441

Foundation stone of original chapel was laid, between the Old Court and the site of the current Chapel. Eventually two organs were in use in this chapel.

25 July 1446

The foundation stone of the present Chapel was laid on the feast of St James, by the King. The original chapel remained in use.

1451

Records show that organs were repaired in 1451 and throughout the following decade.

1452

Chapel equipped with books of chant and polyphony, as well as a pair of organs.

1507-8

New organ by Thomas Brown, £48

1515

Completion of stonework of the current King’s College Chapel

1537

Both organs moved to the new (present) Chapel when the original College Chapel collapsed. Around this time, the organ was used to substitute for music that which might otherwise be sung. It did not provide musical accompaniment to the Choir.

1564

Queen Elizabeth visited the Chapel and heard a Te Deum ‘solemnly sung in Prick Song … the organs playing’.

1570

Provost Goad sold the great organ.

1602 and 1604

College visitor rules on the 1570 sale.

1606

John Tomkins appointed the first Organist and Master of the Choristers

c.1607-11

John Smythson plan of the Chapel shows the organ placed at ground level in the Choir.

1613 or 1630

Organ probably moved from the East End to the top of the screen in anticipation of the royal visits of 1613 or 1632.